My Oxygen Level Is 98, but I Am Short of Breath. What Does It Mean?

A normal oxygen level ranges from 95% to 100%. Anything outside the range requires a clinical examination. You can quickly determine current body oxygen levels by using a Pulse Oximeter. This is a small, portable electronic device that is easy to use. 

A pulse oximeter may indicate normal oxygen saturation levels, but you may still experience shortness of breath. This may be due to your body fighting other medical conditions. 

There are two main models of oxygen concentrators:

• Stationary or Home Oxygen Concentrators: They mainly use AC outlets and are meant for use within the home for less active patients.

• Portable Oxygen Concentrators: They are small and use rechargeable batteries. The devices are ideal for an active person in need of oxygen therapy.

Oxygen saturation levels are the amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells that transfer oxygen in the blood. Healthy oxygen saturation levels range from 95% to 100%. 

Low oxygen saturation levels may drop below the range, meaning the person suffers from hypoxemia or low blood oxygen. This indicates a serious health complication.

Other factors, such as respiratory infections, chronic illnesses, and high altitude, can influence the amount of oxygen saturation. Pulse oximetry can help determine oxygen levels. Also, arterial blood gas can help determine the underlying factors.

Studies associate dyspnea with several factors despite 98% oxygen saturation levels. These factors include:

• Hyperventilation and anxiety reduce carbon dioxide levels, leading to shortness of breath.

• Heart conditions such as irregular heart rate and heart disease affect the oxygen supply levels in the body.

• Respiratory conditions such as pulmonary hypertension, sleep apnea, pulmonary fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This condition may manifest in the form of shortness of breath.

• Anemia is a condition that presents as low hemoglobin that limits the levels of oxygen in the blood, prompting shortness of breath.

• Respiratory muscle weakness contributes to difficulty breathing, leading to shortness of breath.

Mainly, the following are the common causes of shortness of breath;

• Pulmonary hypertension

• Sleep apnea

• Deconditioning and obesity

• Escalating lung disease

• Anemia

A pulse oximeter may show normal blood oxygen levels, but you may still experience shortness of breath.  Here are essential steps in understanding your present health condition;

• Track and monitor symptoms before and after experiencing shortness of breath.

• Always use your pulse oximeter to track blood oxygen saturation levels. 

• Try breathing techniques such as pursed-lip breathing to normalize breathing. 

• In case of anxiety, try relaxation exercises.

• Consult a healthcare provider if the symptoms persist and for further medical advice and examination.

Purchasing Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) is the best choice if you need oxygen on the go. POCs are suitable because of;

• Ease and safety when traveling.

• The rechargeable batteries.

To avoid any inconveniences;

Shortness of breath can be life-threatening, so you should master quick and efficient solutions to manage the situation. 

An efficient method of managing shortness of breath is mastering and adapting different breathing techniques. For instance;

• Breathing techniques such as diaphragmatic breathing are good for controlling anxiety attacks and normalizing oxygen techniques.

• For cardiovascular or lung diseases such as COPD, it is always safe to carry an inhaler to improve oxygen delivery.

• Most importantly, regular exercises are ideal for improving oxygen saturation levels and strengthening the respiratory muscles.

• Eating a healthy diet and practicing pursed-lip breathing can help control shortness of breath, improving oxygen supply.

Shortness of breath is possible even with normal oxygen concentration levels. Cardiovascular and lifestyle diseases are also leading causes of shortness of breath. 

Therefore, identifying the root cause and practicing healthy breathing techniques are paramount. However, it is good to seek medical advice if symptoms persist.

A respiratory therapist is a first aid giver before proceeding for checkups by a healthcare provider.  

Consult a healthcare professional to ensure accurate treatment options and proper management of the present and underlying conditions.